Application Process
The Postdoctoral Certificate Program has two start dates each year — in January and July. There are two opportunities to apply, March 1 and September 1. Regardless of which deadline you choose to apply for, the three steps in the application process are the same.
Application deadlines
- Applying by the March 1 deadline. If you choose to apply by the March 1, 2012, deadline and are admitted to the program, you can then register in June 2012 for the program's first quarter of course work, which begins on July 2, 2012.
- Applying by the Sept. 1 deadline. If you choose to apply by the Sept. 1, 2012, deadline, and are admitted to the program, you can then register in December 2012 for the program's first quarter of course work, which begins on January 2, 2013.
Students admitted to the Certificate Program will be given priority for registration in CTSC classes. Non-admitted students will be allowed to register on a space available basis.
1. Identify a mentor
Identifying a mentor is one of the most important steps in applying to the Postdoctoral Certificate Program. Your mentor will assist you in developing a description of your proposed research experience.
Mentors must be chosen from within Mayo Clinic. You can use Mayo's research faculty directory and research departments and centers to identify and directly contact potential mentors. Contact Center for Translational Science Activities (CTSA) Education Resources if you need assistance identifying potential mentors.
2. Complete and submit application materials
All application materials need to be received by Sept. 1, 2012, or Mar. 1, 2013.
To apply, complete the program application form and submit it along with the supporting materials outlined on the form's first page. As this form is used for both certificate program and master's degree applicants, be sure to indicate at the top of the second page that you are applying for the Postdoctoral Certificate Program.
The application form also requires that you provide a:
- Mayo Clinic posting account unit (PAU)
- Name and signature of your clinical or research administrator
- Name and signature of your department or division chair
On the date you're admitted to the Postdoctoral Certificate Program, a nonrefundable program fee of $3,500 will be charged to the PAU you provide. The program fee increases to $5,000 effective January 1, 2013.
3. Application review and program commencement
Applications are reviewed by the CTSA Postdoctoral Programs Executive Committee immediately after the March 1 and Sept. 1 due dates. You will be notified within six to eight weeks regarding your application status.
Contact
Our Education Contacts page contains a listing of team members who can assist you with questions.
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